Clash of Titans: Drama Builds for Canelo vs. Crawford Superfight as Critics, Cash, and Concerns Collide
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 02 Feb 2025
The boxing world is counting down to the Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford superfight on September 13 in Las Vegas, but the road to the megabout has been anything but smooth. From fiery critiques to jaw-dropping financial revelations and expert warnings, the drama off the canvas rivals the anticipation for the fight itself.
Keyshawn Davis’ “Stupidity Level 1000” Take Backfires
Lightweight contender Keyshawn Davis sparked outrage this week after dismissing the Canelo-Crawford matchup as “stupidity level one thousand” in an interview with Essentially Sports. Davis argued that Crawford, a former undisputed welterweight champion, is “too small” to challenge Canelo at 168 pounds, calling the fight a “cash grab” that risks Crawford’s legacy.
Fans and pundits quickly clapped back. “Davis is forgetting Crawford’s IQ and adaptability,” tweeted Hall of Famer Andre Ward, while others accused Davis of hypocrisy, noting his own career decisions. The backlash has turned Davis’ hot take into a viral meme, with fans photoshopping him into a “concern troll” cartoon.
Canelo Rejected $70M Offer to Face “One Man”
In a bombshell report by SecondsOut, Canelo Alvarez reportedly turned down a $70 million offer to fight an unnamed opponent (rumored to be David Benavidez) earlier this year, doubling down on his commitment to face Crawford.
“Money isn’t everything,” Canelo told reporters. “I want challenges that define my legacy.” Critics, however, question whether avoiding Benavidez—a younger, bigger super middleweight—to fight Crawford, a smaller but technically elite foe, is a strategic move. “Canelo’s playing chess, not checkers,” argued analyst Max Kellerman. “Crawford’s the riskier stylistic puzzle, even at 168.”
Joe Rogan’s Major Warning for Crawford
Podcast titan Joe Rogan amplified concerns about Crawford’s jump to super middleweight on his show, warning that Canelo’s power could be a “nightmare” for the Nebraskan.
“Crawford’s a genius, but Canelo’s body shots? That’s a different beast,” Rogan said on FirstSportz. “One clean liver punch, and even Bud [Crawford] might fold.” Rogan’s comments echo worries from Crawford’s camp, which has prioritized bulking up safely. Trainer Brian McIntyre insists Crawford’s speed and timing will neutralize Canelo’s aggression: “Bud’s not here to survive—he’s here to shock the world.”
The Stakes
With Crawford (+380 underdog) aiming to become a four-division champion and Canelo (-500 favorite) defending his undisputed super middleweight throne, the fight is a high-wire act of legacy and ambition.
• Canelo’s Power vs. Crawford’s Precision: Can Canelo’s bruising body work break Crawford’s rhythm? Or will Crawford’s footwork and counters outclass the Mexican star?
• Weight Class Wizardry: Crawford’s leap from 147 to 168 pounds is unprecedented in modern boxing. Will his skill transcend size?
• The $100M Question: Insiders estimate the fight could generate 150 million dollar in revenue, with both fighters guaranteed career-high payouts.
Final Word
As Vegas odds tighten and training camp footage floods social media, the Canelo-Crawford saga has become more than a fight—it’s a referendum on boxing’s evolving landscape. Will Crawford’s gamble make him an all-time great, or will Canelo solidify his claim as the face of the sport?
Tune in on September 13—the world will be watching.
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